About a century and a half ago, a devout group of Catholic faithful from Poyya led by Ambookkan Lona, belonging to the Nedunthalli lineage of Paravur and affiliated with the Kottekkavu parish, journeyed to the fertile lands of Poyya that lay under the dominion of the Kodungallur Thampuran. Acting in accordance with the decree of the Maharaja, they began to settle there, laying the foundations of a vibrant Christian community. In those early days, the faithful depended entirely on the Kottekkavu Church at Paravur for their spiritual nourishment and religious observances. However, as the settlement grew, the long and arduous journey to Paravur became increasingly difficult for many believers. Thus arose in their hearts a fervent desire to establish a church in Poyya itself, and earnest efforts were soon set in motion to realise this sacred aspiration.
In the year 1885, Ambookkan Lona Ittira donated nearly an acre of land for the construction of the church. This noble act became the cornerstone of a dream cherished by the faithful for years. Subsequently, on June 1, 1887, under the visionary leadership of the first vicar, Thalakkottoor Kuriakose Kathanar, the foundation stone of the church was solemnly laid amidst prayer and devotion.
Though the construction had not been fully completed by June 1889, the church in the name of St. Ephrem had already begun conducting sacred liturgical services, in conjunction with the visit of the Bishop of Varappuzha and Bishop Adolph Medlycott. The occasion filled the hearts of the Poyya faithful with immense joy and spiritual fulfilment, for they were no longer wholly dependent on the Kottekka Church at Paravur for their religious life. Inspired by unwavering faith and collective determination, the parishioners continued the remaining works, for the completion of the parish hall. Through their tireless efforts, devotion, and unity, the church gradually emerged in all its glory as a beacon of faith for generations to come.
